Field serviceable and replaceable assembly

ABSTRACT

An interchangeable display system and method is provided. A first and second side assembly are each selected from a number of: digital side assemblies each comprising an electronic display, static side assemblies each comprising a poster cavity which accepts signage, and cover side assemblies. The first and second side assemblies are interchangeably mounted to a frame. When one of the side assemblies is in need of replacement, it is removed from the frame and a replacement is installed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional applicationSer. No. 16/379,448 filed Apr. 9, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S.Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/886,889 filed Feb. 2, 2018,which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/491,106 filed Apr. 27, 2017 and U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/502,337 filed May 5, 2017, the disclosures of all of whichare hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate generally toassemblies and methods for electronic displays.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Electronic displays have grown in popularity not only for indoor use,but also for outdoor use. One exemplary application, without limitation,is the digital out of home advertising market where the electronicdisplays are increasingly replacing the use of static posters. The useof electronic displays is advantageous because they allow images to bechanged quickly as well as permit the use of videos and interactivedisplays, among other benefits. Such displays have been placed in manylocations, including but not limited, on billboards, the tops ofvehicles, bus shelters, kiosks, sidewalks, stadiums, buildings, and thelike.

Such outdoor, and some indoor, displays are often encased in a housingto protect them from environmental conditions and to hold variouselectronic components that are used to operate the displays. Despiteefforts to protect the display from environmental conditions and otherpotential hazards, failures of the displays themselves and their relatedelectronic components do occur. When such failures occur, it is oftennecessary to repair, replace, or otherwise service (hereinafter alsocollectively, “servicing” or “service”) the displays themselves or theirvarious electronic components. Even when such failures have notoccurred, it may be desirable to access the displays or the variouselectronic components thereof to perform routine or preventativemaintenance, or simply for inspection purposes. It may also be desirableto provide a sealed, powered, connected, and/or cooled cavity forelectronic equipment. Finally, it may be desirable to change theconfiguration of the assembly. For example, without limitation, it maybe desirable to convert a double sided electronic display into anelectronic display on one side with a static poster display on theother. Current assemblies for electronic displays make it difficult orimpossible to service the display and the related electronic components.Therefore, what is needed is a field serviceable and replaceableassembly for an electronic display.

Further, such assemblies are generally connected to external powersources and communications networks. Such connections often requireinteraction with utility lines. Interaction with these utility linesgenerally subjects any servicing work to additional regulations andrequires technicians having specialized knowledge. Such effortsgenerally increase the costs, time, and effort involved with suchservicing. Therefore, what is needed is a field serviceable andreplaceable assembly for an electronic display.

The present invention is a field serviceable and replaceable assemblyfor an electronic display. A single side assembly or a back-to-back pairof side assemblies may be hingedly mounted to a frame. Morespecifically, the side assembly may comprise a frame configured toreceive, in a back to back configuration, one or more digital displays,one or more covers, one or more poster holders (illuminated or notilluminated), or some combination thereof. A closed loop of circulatinggas and an open loop of ambient air may flow through the assembly. Theframe may be surrounded, at least in part, by a housing. In exemplaryembodiments utilizing back-to-back side assemblies, the frame and theside assemblies may enclose an electronics cavity. Each side assemblymay be hingedly connected to an upper portion of the frame and may beconfigured to swing outwardly to allow access to electronic componentslocated in an electronics cavity. The cavity may be sealed, cooled,powered, and/or connected for electronic equipment. Some electroniccomponents may be mounted to a plate located between the two sideassemblies. In other embodiments, the plate (along with the electroniccomponents) may be mounted to one of the side assemblies or may form apart of the respective side assembly.

In exemplary embodiments utilizing a single side assembly, the sideassembly may be similarly mounted. However, an access panel may enclosethe rear of the assembly such that the electronics cavity may also beaccessed from the rear. The access panel may additionally be configuredto receive a poster or a cover.

Regardless, a pair of aid devices may be utilized with each sideassembly or access panel to assist in moving the side assembly betweenthe open and the closed position as well as secure the side assembly inthe open or closed position. In exemplary embodiments, a number of theelectronic components may be shared for both side assemblies so as toreduce the total number of electronic components required. The aiddevices may also assist in securing the side assembly in the open or theclosed position. The side assemblies and/or the access panel may beopened to service the electronic components and the side assemblies.When necessary, the side assembly itself may be removed from the frameand replaced.

The one or more digital displays, one or more covers, and one or moreposter holders may be mechanically attached to the frame by way of abracket and a pin, which may be configured to serve as the main, oronly, mechanical support for the one or more digital displays, one ormore covers, and one or more poster holders. In this way, the digitaldisplays, covers, or poster holders may be easily and quickly removedfrom the frame for servicing. In exemplary embodiments, external powerand communications connections may be located on the frame or on a platelocated between the one or more digital displays, one or more covers,one or more poster holders such that servicing of the one or moredigital displays, one or more covers, one or more poster holders can beperformed by disconnecting the power and communications at theconnection point rather than disturbing the connection to the utilitylines. In this way, the external power and communications connectionsmay often remain undisturbed.

In some situations, it may be advantageous to increase the coolingcapabilities of the assembly. For example, without limitation, it may bedesirable to add additional temperature sensitive or heat producingequipment to the assemblies, drive the electronic displays orillumination elements at higher brightness levels, operate in extremeenvironments with high temperatures or high solar loading, or to provideand operate larger electronic displays in one or more of the sideassemblies. Therefore, what is needed is a field serviceable andreplaceable assembly for an electronic display with increased cooling.

The present invention provides a field serviceable and replaceableassembly for an electronic display with increased cooling. In exemplaryembodiments, an additional open loop channel for ambient air may beadded to one or both of the side assemblies mounted to either side ofthe frame. In exemplary embodiments, the additional open loop channelmay only be added to the side assembly or assemblies comprising a coveror a poster holder, though it is contemplated that the additional openloop channel may also be added to the side assemblies comprising adigital display. It is contemplated that the additional open loopchannel may be added to one or both side assemblies.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In addition to the features mentioned above, other aspects of thepresent invention will be readily apparent from the followingdescriptions of the drawings and exemplary embodiments, wherein likereference numerals across the several views refer to identical orequivalent features, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary assembly inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective of the assembly of FIG. 1 illustrated withthe stand removed to illustrate additional components of the assembly;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective of the assembly of FIG. 2 illustrated withone of the assemblies in the open position;

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 2 illustratedwith one of the assemblies removed;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 4,illustrated with exemplary flow paths for circulating gas and ambientair;

FIG. 6A is a top sectional view of an exemplary display assemblyillustrated in isolation from other components to illustrate exemplaryflow paths for circulating gas and ambient air;

FIG. 6B is a top sectional view of an exemplary display assembly with anexemplary poster cavity;

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of another exemplary embodiment ofthe assembly also indicating section lines A-A and B-B;

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 7 illustratedwith both display assemblies in the open position;

FIG. 9 is an exploded front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a top sectional view taken along section line A-A of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11 is a side sectional view taken along section line B-B of FIG. 7;

FIG. 12A is a rear perspective view of another exemplary assembly;

FIG. 12B is a rear perspective view of another exemplary assembly;

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of another exemplary assembly alsoindicating Detail A;

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 13illustrated with one of the display assemblies in the open position;

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 13illustrated with both of the display assemblies in the open positionalso indicating Detail B;

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 14illustrated with one of the display assemblies removed;

FIG. 17 is a detailed top perspective view of Detail A of FIG. 13;

FIG. 18A is a detailed perspective view of Detail B of FIG. 15 with thedisplay assembly in the closed position and illustrating an otherwisehidden strut;

FIG. 18B is a detailed top perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 18Aillustrated with the display assembly in the open position;

FIG. 19A is a vertical cross-sectional view of another exemplaryassembly;

FIG. 19B is a vertical cross-sectional view of another exemplaryassembly; and

FIG. 20 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG.19A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT(S)

Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described indetail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the followingdescription, specific details such as detailed configuration andcomponents are merely provided to assist the overall understanding ofthese embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, it should beapparent to those skilled in the art that various changes andmodifications of the embodiments described herein can be made withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Inaddition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions areomitted for clarity and conciseness.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary assembly 10 inaccordance with the present invention. The assembly 10 may comprise oneor more side assemblies 14 placed within a housing 6. The housing 6 maycomprise a stand 8 for mounting the assembly 10 to the ground. However,in other exemplary embodiments, the assembly 10 may be mounted toanother object such as, but not limited to, a bus shelter, a post, awall, a building, a roof rack for a vehicle, or the like. Regardless, anintake 16 may be located on the top of the housing 6. As will bedescribed in greater detail herein, an exhaust 9 may be located on thebottom of the housing 6. However, it is contemplated that the intake 16may be located on the bottom of the housing 6 with the exhaust 9 beinglocated on the top of the housing 6. Any other location for the intake16 and the exhaust 9 is contemplated. Regardless, the intake 16 maylikewise extend through the frame 12. Similarly, the exhaust 9 mayextend through the frame 12. Alternatively, the air may flow into theexhaust 9 and out of the intake 16.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective of the assembly 10 of FIG. 1 illustratedwith the stand 6 removed to illustrate additional components of theassembly 10. The side assemblies 14 may be mounted to a frame 12. Theframe 12 may be substantially rectangular in shape and may have interiorand exterior surfaces or panels. In exemplary embodiments, the frame 12may comprise an interconnected upper, lower, right side, and a left sidepiece, but may be substantially open on the front or rear sides thereofsuch that a side assembly 14 may be mounted to the frame 14 tosubstantially cover said front and rear openings. The frame 12 may beconfigured to receive a first and second side assembly 14 in a back toback arrangement. The side assemblies 14 may comprise digital displays,covers (i.e., access panels), poster holders (illuminated orunilluminated), some combination thereof, or the like. The posterholders may be configured to receive a static poster and may be back oredge illuminated. In exemplary embodiments, the covers and the posterholders may serve as access panels, though any of the foregoing may bemoved or removed to allow access to the interior of the assembly 10. Forexample, without limitation, the assembly 10 may comprise two electronicdisplays placed back-to-back, or a single electronic display placedback-to-back with a poster holder. Regardless, the frame 12 may beconfigured to be connected to the stand 8, another object, or directlyto the ground.

In embodiments comprising a single side assembly 14, the frame 12 may bea five-sided box. Namely, the frame 12 may comprise an interconnectedupper, lower, right side, and a left side piece as well as a front orrear panel. However, the frame 12 may be substantially open on the rearor front sides thereof, respectively, such that the side assembly 14 maybe mounted to substantially cover said opening.

As will be explained in greater detail herein, the assembly 10 mayfurther comprise an electronics cavity 18 for storing electroniccomponents 30 for operating the assembly 10. The electronics cavity 18may be located in the space between the side assemblies 14 and the frame12. Stated another way, the first and second side assemblies 14 mayshare a common electronics cavity 18.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate the side assemblies 14 in a closed positionsuch that the side assemblies 14 are in contact with the frame 12 or arelocated substantially parallel to the ground. As will be explained ingreater detail herein, the side assemblies 14 may be hingedly mounted tothe frame 12 by way of a hinging device 22. A first and second hingingdevice 22 may be located on either side of the frame 12 so as to connectthe first and second side assembly 14 to the frame 12 in a hingedfashion. The first and second hinging devices 22 may be the same or maybe different. For example, without limitation, the hinging devices 22used to hingedly mount a side assembly 14 comprising a digital displaymay be the same or may be different from the hinging device 22 used tomount a display assembly comprising a poster holder. In exemplaryembodiments, the hinging devices 22 may be located on an upper portionof the frame 12, such that the side assemblies 14 rotate outward along asubstantially horizontal axis. In other exemplary embodiments, thehinging devices 22 may be located along an edge of the frame 12, suchthat the side assemblies 14 rotate outward along a substantiallyvertical axis. Any location of the hinging devices 22 is contemplated.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the assembly 10 of FIG. 2illustrated with one of the side assemblies 14 in an open position. Theside assembly 14 may rotate via the hinging device 22 into the openedposition such that the bottom of the side assembly 14 is swung outwardand away from the frame 12. This may allow access to the electronicscavity 18 such that personnel may service the electronic components 30located therein.

The assembly 10 may further comprise a pair of aid devices 20,preferably having a first end and a second end, though such is notrequired. In exemplary embodiments, the aid devices 20 may be gassprings, though any type of aid device is contemplated. Such aid devices20 may include, but are not limited to, any device which utilizes amechanical advantage in order to assist is moving the side assemblies 14between an open position or closed positions as well as, oralternatively, to temporarily secure the side assemblies 14 in the openposition or closed position. Other exemplary aid devices 20 include, butare not limited to, struts, springs, block and tackle, counterweights,levers, gears, tethers, belts, chains, motors, screws, some combinationthereof, or the like.

The first end of the aid devices 20 may be mounted to either side of theside assembly 14 and the second end of the aid devices 20 may be mountedto either side of the interior of the frame 12. In exemplaryembodiments, the first end of the aid devices 20 is mounted lowerrelative to second end of the aid devices 20, though the opposite iscontemplated. The aid devices 20 may be configured to assist withmovement of the side assemblies 14 between the open and the closedpositions as well as temporarily securing the side assemblies 14 in theopened or the closed positions.

In exemplary embodiments, the side assemblies 14 may be lockable to theframe 12 or the housing 6 such that the side assemblies 14 cannotnormally be moved from the closed position unless unlocked. This mayassist in restricting access to the electronics cavity 18 to authorizedpersonnel.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the assembly 10 of FIG. 2illustrated with one of the side assemblies 14 removed so as toillustrate the electronics cavity 18. A gasket 28 may extend around theperimeter of either or both sides of the frame 12. The gaskets 28 mayprovide a substantially air tight seal when the side assemblies 14 areplaced in the closed position. The gaskets 28 may ensure or assist inallowing the electronics cavity 18 to maintain a substantially air tightseal, though such is not required.

A plate 19 may be located in the electronics cavity 18 and theelectronic components 30 may be mounted thereto. Alternatively, or inaddition, an electronics plate 42 may be located in the electronicscavity 18. In exemplary embodiments, the electronics plate 42 may bemounted to the frame 12 such that the electronics plate 42 extendssubstantially parallel to the front surface of the electronic sideassemblies 14. Similarly, in exemplary embodiments the plate 19 may bemounted to the rear surface of one or more of the side assemblies 14.However, any location and orientation of the plate 19 and theelectronics plate 42 is contemplated.

The electronic components 30 may comprise any number of components usedto operate the assembly 10 and its various components. Such electroniccomponents 30 may include, but are not limited to, power sources, powerdistribution components, video players, video receiver boards,processors, electronic storage devices, communications equipment,wireless transmitter/receivers, network connectivity devices, printedcircuit boards, and the like. In exemplary embodiments, a number of theelectronic components 30 may be utilized to operate both side assemblies14. For example, but not to serve as a limitation, at least the videoplayers, video receiver boards, communications equipment, wirelesstransmitter/receivers, and network connectivity devices may be shared.This may reduce the number of electronic components 30 required. Inexemplary embodiments, the plate 19 or the electronics plate 42 maycomprise a server rack, though such is not required.

Each hinging device 22 may comprise a frame hinge plate 26 and a firstand second display hinge plate 24. The frame hinge plate 26 may belocated on the exterior panels on either side of an upper portion of theframe 12 such that the frame hinge plate 26 extends substantiallyperpendicular relative to the electronics plate 42. The display hingeplates 24 may be located on either side of an upper portion of each ofthe side assemblies 14 such that the display hinge plates 26 extendsubstantially perpendicular relative to the electronics plate 42. Thedisplay hinge plate 24 may comprise one or more notches or aperturescorresponding to notches or apertures located on the frame hinge plate26. Any number of fasteners 27 may extend through the correspondingnotches or apertures in the display hinge plate 24 and the frame hingeplate 26 such that the frame hinge plate 26 may be hingedly secured tothe display hinge plate 24. The fasteners 27 may include threadedfasteners, pins, bolts, screws, nails, or the like. This is merelyexemplary, any type of hinge device 22 is contemplated. In exemplaryembodiments, the frame hinge plates 26, the display hinge plates 24 andthe fasteners 27 may be configured to serve as the main or solemechanical attachment points for mounting the side assemblies 14 to theframe 12.

The hinge device 22 may provide for easy removal of one or both of theside assemblies 14 when servicing the assembly 10. The fasteners 27 maysimply be removed from either side of the side assembly 14 and theentire side assembly 14 may be removed. Additionally, removal mayrequire relatively minor additional steps such as, but not limited to,the disconnection of various electrical wires and other components asfurther described herein. A replacement side assembly 14 may then beinstalled. Installation may comprise, but is not limited to, moving theAdditionally, installation of the new side assembly 14 may requirerelatively minor additional steps such as, but not limited to, theconnection of the aforementioned various electrical wires and othercomponents as further described herein. The side assembly 14 beingserviced may then be returned to a service center for servicing. Thismay minimize downtime of the assembly 10.

Additionally, the assembly 10 may require connection to an externalpower source, communications network, and the like to operate. This mayrequire connecting into utility lines. In exemplary embodiments,connection to said utility lines may be made through separate connectors72 located on the frame 12, within the cavity 18, on the plate 19, onthe electronics plate 42, or at another location. These connectors 72may be connected to the other various electronic components 30 viaelectrical wiring, ethernet cable, telephone cable, axial cable, fiberoptic cable, or the like. The disconnection and reconnection of suchwiring from the connectors 72 may be required when removing orinstalling a side assembly 14. In this way, the connection into theutility lines may not be disturbed when servicing the assembly 10. Inexemplary embodiments, the connectors 72 may also act as pass throughdevices 35.

FIG. 5 illustrates exemplary flow paths through the assembly 10 of FIG.4. FIG. 6A illustrates a top sectional view of an exemplary sideassembly 14 to further illustrate said exemplary flow paths. Each sideassembly 14 may comprise a cover panel 17 that faces an intended viewer.An electronic display 11 may be located behind, spaced apart from, andsubstantially parallel to the cover panel 17. Cover panel 17 may becomprised of any substantially transparent or translucent material andmay be comprised of multiple layers. The cover panel 17 may be comprisedof a toughened material or may comprise optical adhesive placed betweenthe multiple layers such that the cover panel 17 is strengthened againstvandalism. The electronic display 11 may be any type of electronicdisplay 11, including but not limited to, a liquid crystal display(LCD), light emitting diode (LED) display, organic LED (OLED) display,plasma display, or the like. The space between the rear surface of thecover panel 17 and the front surface of the electronic display 11 maydefine a first channel 25. A display assembly housing 15 may surroundthe electronic display 11 such that the combination of the cover panel17 and the display assembly housing 15 substantially encloses theelectronic display 11. One or more of the side assemblies 14 may furtherconfigured to receive touch input. For example, without limitation, theelectronic display 11 may comprise a capacitive or resistive touchscreen and related components required to operate said touch screen,though any type of touch screen is contemplated.

A backlight 21 may be located behind and substantially parallel to theelectronic display 11. The backlight 21 may be spaced apart from theelectronic display 11, though such is not required. A second channel 23may be located within the side assembly 14 and may be configured toreceive ambient air 38. The second channel 23 may permit ambient air 38to flow substantially vertically through the side assembly 14 from topto bottom, or from the bottom to the top. In exemplary embodiments, thesecond channel 23 is defined, at least in part, by the space between therear surface of the backlight 21 and the rear surface of the displayassembly housing 15, though any location is contemplated.

A first and a second side channel 32 may extend along either side of theside assembly 14. The side channels 32 may be configured to receivecirculating gas 36. In exemplary embodiments, the side channels 32 aredefined, at least in part, by the space between the second channel 23and the side of the display assembly housing 15, though any location iscontemplated.

One or both sides of the frame 12 may comprise a side gap 13 locatedbetween interior and exterior side panels. As such, the assembly 10 maycomprise a first and a second side gap 13, where each is located oneither side of the frame 12. In other exemplary embodiments, theassembly 10 may comprise only a first side gap 13. Apertures may belocated along the interior panels of the side(s) of the frame 12 havingthe side gap(s) 13 such that circulating gas 36 may be passed from theelectronics cavity 12 into and out of the side gap(s) 13. In exemplaryembodiments, the circulating gas 36 may flow from the first side gap 13,though the first side channel 32, though the first channel 25, throughthe second side channel 32, through the second side gap 13, though theelectronics cavity 18, and be returned to the first side gap 13, therebyforming a closed loop. In exemplary embodiments where the assembly 10comprises only the first side gap 13, the circulating gas 36 may passdirectly from the electronics cavity 18 into or out of the first or thesecond side channel 32. Additionally, the circulating gas 36 may besplit and travel through first channel 25 located in each respectiveside assembly 14. Stated another way, the closed loop may pass througheach side assembly 14 and return to the cavity 18. It is notable thatthe side gaps 13 are optional.

One or more fans 34 may be mounted to said apertures in the interiorpanels of the side of the frame 12 to force the circulating gas 36though the closed loop, though it is contemplated that any number offans 34 may be placed at any number of locations along the path of thecirculating gas 36.

The bottom and top of the frame 12 may similarly comprise interior andexterior panels with an upper gap 41 and a lower gap 40 locatedtherebetween, though such is not required. Apertures may be locatedalong the exterior panels of the bottom and top of the frame 12 suchthat ambient air 38 may be ingested from outside of the assembly 10 andexhausted from inside of the assembly 10. These apertures may form theexhaust 9 and the intake 16. In exemplary embodiments, ambient air 38may be ingested from the bottom of the assembly 10 into the lower gap40. The ambient air 38 may then travel vertically upwards through thesecond channel 23 in the side assembly 14 and into the upper gap 41. Theambient air 38 may then be exhausted through the intake 16, thus formingan open loop. In the exemplary embodiments, the ambient air 38 may besplit and travel through each of the second channels 23 located in eachof the respective side assemblies 14.

One or more fans 34 may be mounted to said apertures in the exteriorpanels of the bottom of the frame 12 to force the ambient air 38 thoughthe open loop, though it is contemplated that any number of fans 34 maybe located in any number of locations along the path of the ambient air38.

In exemplary embodiments where the side assembly 14 is an electronicdisplay, the ambient air 38 flowing through the second channel 23 may bein thermal communication with the backlight 21 so as to absorb heatgenerated therefrom, though such is not required. In exemplaryembodiments where the side assembly 14 is an illuminated poster holder,the ambient air 38 flowing through the second channel 23 may be inthermal communication with the illumination devices so as to absorb heatgenerated therefrom, though such is not required. In still otherexemplary embodiments where the side assembly 14 is a cover, the ambientair 38 may optionally flow through a second channel 23 located in thecover, though such is not required. Regardless, the ambient air 38flowing through the second channel 23 may be in thermal communicationwith circulating gas 36 flowing through the closed loop such that therelatively cool ambient air 38 may remove heat from the relatively warmcirculating gas 36. The ambient air 38 flowing through the open loop maybe in thermal communication with the circulating gas 32 flowing throughthe closed loop so as to absorb heat therefrom while not allowing theambient air 38 and the circulating gas 32 to substantially mix. Forexample, without limitation, the ambient air 28 traveling through thesecond channel 23 may be in thermal communication with the circulatinggas 38 flowing through the cavity 18.

It is notable that the use of airflow channels, such as but not limitedto, the first channel 25, the second channel 23, and the side channels32 may not be required in embodiments where the side assembly 14 is aposter holder or cover. In such embodiments, the airflow may be directedinto the remaining side assembly 14 comprising such airflow channels. Ifno such side assembly 14 is utilized, the airflow may simply circulatewithin the cavity 18. In some exemplary embodiments, the poster holderor cover may still utilize some or all of aforementioned the airflowchannels. Regardless, the number of fans utilized may be reduced orincreased to accommodate the number of airflow channels used.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view similar to FIG. 1 of anotherexemplary embodiment of the assembly 10 also indicating section linesA-A and B-B.

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the assembly 10 of FIG. 7illustrated with both side assemblies 14 in the open position. The plate19 may be mounted to one of the side assemblies 14. In other exemplaryembodiments, the plate 19 may form a part of the side assembly 14. Manyor all of the electronic components 30 may still be shared by the sideassemblies 14.

The shared electronic components 30 may be located on the plate, thoughsuch is not required. In exemplary embodiments, the side assemblies 14of the same type (e.g., electronic displays, poster holders, or covers),including the electronic components 30 located on or in the sideassemblies 14, are substantially identical for the front or rear facingside assembly 14 of the same type (e.g., when both side assemblies 14comprise electronic displays or both side assemblies 14 comprise posterholders) such that the two may be interchanged. In this way, a singletype of side assembly 14 to be used to replace any of that type sideassembly 14 or may be freely substituted with a different type sideassembly 14. For example, without limitation, a separate front and backside assembly 14 need not be stored as spares for a single assembly 10.Instead, a single spare side assembly 14 may be used to replace eitherthe front or back side assembly 14. This may reduce the need to storeadditional spare side assemblies 14. Stated another way, a side assembly14 comprising an electronic display may be placed on either the front orthe rear of the assembly. Likewise, a side assembly 14 comprising anelectronic display may be freely substituted with a side assembly 14comprising a cover.

FIG. 9 is a front perspective exploded view of the assembly of FIG. 8.An electronics plate 42 may be mounted to the frame 12, though such isnot required. The electronics plate 42 may be located in an upperportion of the electronics cavity 18, though any location iscontemplated. The electronics plate 42 may be mounted so as to extendsubstantially parallel with the front surface of the side assemblies 14when the side assemblies 14 are in the closed position. The electronicsplate 42 may be configured to receive the electronics components 30 andadditional electronic components 44, which may be mounted thereto. Inexemplary embodiments, the additional electronic components 44 maycomprise customer-specific or customer-installed electronic componentsor other components for operating the assembly 10. However, any type ofelectronic components 44 and 30 are contemplated, such as but notlimited to, computers, processors, routers, servers, machine to machinecommunications equipment, wireless connectivity devices, Bluetoothconnectivity devices, near field communication devices, cameras,electronic storage devices, memory, and the like. In exemplaryembodiments, the electronics plate 42 may comprise a server rack, suchas but not limited to, a 1 U server rack.

By placing the side assemblies 14 in the opened position, theelectronics cavity 18, the plate 19, the electronics plate 42, therelated electronic components 30 and additional electronic components 44may be serviced. Additionally, the side assemblies 14 themselves may beserviced by removing the display assemblies from the hinging device 22as previously discussed.

Various pass through devices 35 may be located in the frame 12 or otherwalls defining the cavity 18 such that power lines, communication lines,and the like may be passed into the cavity 18 from outside. These passthrough devices 35 may be configured to provide a substantially air andwater tight seal, though such is not required. In other embodiments, thepass through devices 35 may provide a level of ingress and egressprotection. Any number and location of said pass through devices 35 arecontemplated. This may help to reduce the number of entry and exitpoints in the assembly 10 and simplify the cabling. The pass throughdevices 35 may provide a connection/disconnection point for wiring andcabling. The cavity 18 may provide a substantially sealed, cooled,connected, and/or powered electronics cavity 18 for mounting electroniccomponents, such as but not limited to, the additional electroniccomponents 44 and the electronic components 30.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary assembly 10 where the fans 34 for theambient air 38 may be located on the top of the frame 12 in theapertures of the upper gap 41.

FIG. 10 is a top sectional view taken along section line A-A of FIG. 7and illustrating exemplary side assemblies 14 in the closed position,where the side assemblies 14 comprise electronic displays. The secondchannel 23 may comprise a corrugation layer 46 located between thebacklight 21 and the electronics cavity 18. The ambient air 38 may passthrough the corrugation layer 46. As illustrated in FIG. 10, theassembly 10 may only comprise the first side gap 13. It is contemplatedthat the first side gap 13 may be located on either side of the assembly10 or may not be required at all. It is further contemplated that acorrugation layer 46 may be utilized in side assemblies 14 comprising aposter holder or cover.

FIG. 11 is a side sectional view taken along section line B-B of FIG. 7.As illustrated in FIG. 11, the lower gap 40 is optional. Instead,ambient air 38 may enter via the intake 41 and be ingested directly intothe side assemblies 14 where it may travel through the second channel 23to the upper gap 41 and exit via the exhaust 9. Alternatively, the airmay enter via the exhaust 9 and exit via the intake 41.

FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B is a rear perspective view of another exemplaryassembly 10. FIGS. 12A-12B illustrates how the side assemblies 14 may berotated outward along a substantially horizontal axis or a substantiallyvertical axis. The side assemblies 14 may act as an access panel. Inexemplary embodiments where the side assemblies 14 are covers, the sideassembly 14 may be comprised of sheet metal or black glass, though anytype of material is contemplated. In exemplary embodiments comprisingblack glass, the black glass may be comprised of one or more transparentor translucent panels wherein one or more of the panels are printed withblack ink. In exemplary embodiments, the panels may alternatively oradditionally be printed with a logo or other information. The panels maybe comprised of a toughened material or may comprise optical adhesiveplaced between two panels such that the cover is strengthened againstvandalism.

In other exemplary embodiments, where the side assembly 14 comprises aposter holder configured to hold a static poster, the side assembly 14may comprise a transparent cover located above a plate to define aposter cavity, which may be configured hold the poster therebetween. Anexemplary poster cavity is illustrated at FIG. 6B. Illumination devicesmay be placed within, around, or along the poster cavity to providebacklighting or edge lighting to illuminate the poster.

In exemplary embodiments, the side assemblies 14 may swing openhorizontally (as shown in FIG. 12A) or vertically (as shown in FIG.12B). In exemplary embodiments where the side assembly 14 swings openvertically, aid devices 20 may likewise be used to assist in moving theside assembly 14 between the open and closed positions as well assecuring the side assembly 14 in the open and closed positions.

Although the flow of the ambient air 38 and the circulating gas 36 maybe shown and described herein with respect to particular directions andorientations, it is contemplated that the ambient air 38 and thecirculating gas 36 may flow in other directions. For example, withoutlimitation, ambient air 38 and circulating gas 36 shown as flowingclockwise may flow counter-clockwise, when shown flowing vertically fromtop to bottom may flow from bottom to top, when shown flowinghorizontally from right to left may flow from left to right, when shownflowing vertically may flow horizontally, when shown flowinghorizontally may flow vertically, and the like.

It is contemplated that the assembly 10, or various components thereof,may be adapted for and/or used with any size side assemblies 14 in anyapplication. For example, but not to serve as a limitation, the assembly10, or various components thereof, may be adapted for and/or used with avehicle topper unit such as is illustrated and described in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/450,365 filed Mar. 6, 2017, the disclosures ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of another exemplary assembly 100also indicating Detail A. FIG. 13 through FIG. 18B illustrate anddescribe an adaptation of the assembly 10 for use with a vehicle topperunit as previously mentioned. Similar features have been similarlynumbered but increased by 100 (e.g., assembly 10 and assembly 100). Theassembly 100 may comprise a frame 112 which may be rectangular in shape,though any shape is contemplated. The frame 112 may be covered bycladding that forms a housing. The cladding may provide an aestheticallypleasing appearance and may improve aerodynamics. The frame 112 may beadapted to be mounted to the roof of a vehicle, though such is notrequired. A first and second side assembly 114 may be attached to theframe 112, though any number of side assemblies 114 are contemplated. Inexemplary embodiments, the first and second side assemblies 114 areplaced back-to-back on either side of the frame 112. The assembly 100may further comprise a pair of mounting devices 150. In exemplaryembodiments, the mounting devices 150 may be located on the underside ofthe frame 112 and may be feet configured to permit the assembly 100 tobe mounted to the roof of a vehicle, though any type of mounting device150 is contemplated.

A fan 134 may be located on an aperture in the frame 112 and may beconfigured to permit the ingestion of ambient air 138. Once ingested,the ambient air 138 may travel horizontally through channels in the sideassemblies 114 and exit through apertures on the other end of the frame112. This may form an open loop. It is contemplated that the fan 134 maybe located at any location along the path of the ambient air 138.

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of the assembly 100 of FIG. 13illustrated with one of the side assemblies 114 in the open position.The side assemblies 114 may be hingedly mounted to the frame 112 by wayof a hinging device 122. The hinging device 122 may permit the sideassemblies 114 to be moved between a closed position, wherein therespective side assembly 114 rests against or is located in closeproximity with the frame 112 and/or where the front surface of therespective side assembly 114 is substantially perpendicular to theground, and an open position wherein the respective side assembly 114 isrotated outwardly from the frame 112 and/or at least one edge of theside assembly 114 is moved away from the frame 112. A gasket 128 mayextend around the perimeter of the surfaces of the frame 112 whichcontact the side assemblies 114. The gaskets 128 may be configured toprovide a substantially air tight seal in the electronics cavity 118when the side assemblies 114 are located in the closed position.

An electronics cavity 118 may be located between the rear surfaces ofthe side assemblies 114. The electronics cavity 118 may comprise a plate142 that is configured to receive a number of electronic components 130or additional electronic components 144 which may be mounted thereto. Inexemplary embodiments, the plate 142 may be mounted to the frame 112. Inother exemplary embodiments, the plate 142 may be mounted to, or form apart of, one of the side assemblies 114. Various pass through devices135 may be located in the walls defining the cavity 118 such that powerlines, communication lines, and the like may be passed into the cavity118 from outside. The pass through devices 135 may be configured toprovide a substantially air and water tight seal or otherwise provideingress and egress protection. This may help to reduce the number ofpass through points in the assembly 100 and simplify the cabling.Additionally, the pass through devices 135 may provide a single orlimited number of connection or disconnection points for removing thewiring for servicing the side assemblies 114. In exemplary embodiments,the electronics cavity 118 may provide a cooled, powered, connected,and/or sealed area for electronic components, such as but not limitedto, the electronic components 130 and the additional electroniccomponents 144.

When either or both the of side assemblies 114 are placed in the openposition, the electronics cavity 118 may be exposed. This may allowaccess to the electronics cavity 118, the plate 142, and the electroniccomponents 130 such that personnel may service the electronic components130 located therein. In exemplary embodiments, the side assemblies 114may be selectively locked to the frame 112 such that the respective sideassembly 114 cannot normally be moved from the closed position unlessunlocked. This may assist in restricting access to the electronicscavity 118 to authorized personnel.

The frame 112 may comprise interior and exterior surfaces. In exemplaryembodiments, a lower gap 140 may be located in the space between theinterior and exterior surfaces of the frame 112 along a lower portionthereof. Stated another way, the lower gap 140 may be located betweenthe bottom of the electronics cavity 118 and the bottom of the frame112.

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the assembly 100 of FIG. 13 isillustrated with both of the side assemblies 114 in the open positionand also indicating Detail B. A first and second strut 152 may extendbetween the frame 112 and each of the respective side assemblies 114. Inother exemplary embodiments, a pair of struts 152 may be used for eachrespective side assembly 114. The strut 152 may be configured totemporarily secure the respective side assembly 114 in the openedposition, although it is contemplated that the strut 152 may beconfigured to also temporarily secure the respective side assembly 114in the closed position. Alternatively, any of the aid devices 20 may beutilized in conjunction with or in substitution of the struts 152.

In exemplary embodiments, the struts 152 may be mounted to each of therespective side assemblies 114 in a rotatable fashion. The struts 152may be mounted in a rotatable fashion by way of a pin, bearing, hinge,fastener, or the like, though any device or mounting configuration iscontemplated. Regardless, the struts 152 may be configured to betemporarily secured to each of the respective side assemblies 114 suchthat the respective side assembly 114 is propped or otherwise held inthe open position. While the struts 152 are discussed as being mountedto each of the respective side assemblies 114 and temporarily secured tothe frame 112, it is contemplated that the struts 152 may instead bemounted to frame 112 and temporarily secured to each of the respectiveside assemblies 114.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the assembly 100 of FIG. 14illustrated with one of the side assemblies 114 removed. Circulating gas136 may travel vertically through the electronics cavity 118 where it isseparated and passes through each respective side assembly 114. Inexemplary embodiments, the circulating gas 136 flows through a channelbetween a cover glass an electronic display in each of the respectiveside assemblies 114. The circulating gas 136 may then travel through thelower gap 140 and be returned to the electronics cavity 118 viaapertures in the interior surfaces of the frame 112, thereby forming aclosed loop. In exemplary embodiments, these apertures in the frame 112may have fans 134 mounted thereto to move the circulating gas 136through the closed loop, though it is contemplated that the fans 134 maybe located anywhere along the path of the circulating gas 136.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/450,365 filed Mar. 6, 2017, thedisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety, describes an exemplary thermal management system for theassembly 100 including, but not limited to, open and closed looppathways for ambient air and circulating gas.

It is contemplated that either or both of the side assemblies 114 maycomprise an electronics display, a poster holder, or a cover. It isfurther contemplated that some or all of the electronic components 130used to operate the side assemblies 114 may be located on the plate 142.It is also contemplated that the side assemblies 114 of the same type(e.g., comprising an electronic display, poster holder, or cover) may besubstantially identical, such that the side assemblies 114 located onthe left or right side of the assembly 100 may be freely substituted.

FIG. 17 is a detailed top perspective view of Detail A of FIG. 13. Thehinging device 122 may comprise a first and second display hinge plate156, a first frame hinge plate 154, and a second frame hinge plate 158.Each of the first and second display hinge plates 156 may besubstantially “L” shaped and may be configured to extend between a rearsurface of the respective side assemblies 114 and the first frame hingeplate 154. The first frame hinge plate 154 may be mounted to either endof the frame 112. Optionally, a second frame hinge plate 158 may belocated on the other side of the first and second display hinge plates156 such that the first and second display hinge plates 156 aresandwiched between the first frame hinge plate 154 and the second framehinge plate 158. It is contemplated that the second display hinge plate156 may not be required, but may be used to provide added strength andstability. Additionally, the second hinge plate 158 may be configured toextend behind a portion of the side assemblies 114 so as to serve as abackstop.

A first fastener 127 may extend through the first frame hinge plate 154,the first display hinge plate 156, and the second frame hinge plate 158.Likewise, a second fastener 127 may extend through the first frame hingeplate 154, the second display hinge plate 156, and the second framehinge plate 158. The fastener 127 may be a pin or another devicepermitting rotational movement of the first and second display hingeplates 156. In exemplary embodiments, the second frame hinge plate 158may be selectively secured to the respective side assembly 114 such thatthe respective side assembly 114 may be temporarily secured in theclosed position. The frame hinge plate 156, the display hinge plate 154,and the fasteners 127 may be configured to bear all or substantially allof the weight of the respective side assembly 114.

The design of the hinge device 122 may provide for easy removal of oneor both of the side assemblies 114 when servicing the assembly 100. Thefasteners 127 may be removed from either side of the respectively sideassembly 114 and the entire side assembly 114 may be removed.Additionally, the disconnection of wiring, along with other steps, maybe required. A replacement side assembly 114 may then be installed.Additionally, the connection of wiring, along with other steps, may berequired. The side assembly 114 being serviced may then be returned to aservice center for servicing. This may minimize downtime of the assembly100.

FIG. 18A is a detailed perspective view of Detail B of FIG. 15 alsoillustrating the otherwise hidden strut 152. FIG. 18B is a topperspective view of the assembly 100 of FIG. 18A illustrated with theside assembly 114 in the open position. As can be seen, the strut 152may be moved between a supporting and a stored position. The strut 152may rotated into the stored position such that the strut 152 issubstantially aligned with the side assembly 114 when the side assembly114 in the closed position. In this way, the strut 152 is no longerbearing the weight of the side assembly 114 and may be stored within therespective side assembly 114 when the strut 152 is not being used tokeep the side assembly 114 in the open position. The strut 152 may berotated into the supporting position where the strut 152 is secured atan angle to the frame 112 such that the side assembly 114 may be proppedor otherwise held in the open position. In exemplary embodiments, thestrut 152 may comprise a notch 153 configured to be temporarily securedto a corresponding bracket or groove located on the frame 112 such thatthe strut 152 bears some or all of the weight of the side assembly 114so as to prop or hold the respective side assembly 114 in the openposition.

FIG. 19A through FIG. 20 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of theassembly 210. Similar features have been similarly numbered butincreased by 100 (e.g., assembly 10 and 110 now assembly 210). Theassembly 210 may comprise a second open loop channel 262 for ambientair. The second open loop channel 262 may be located in one or more ofthe side assemblies 214. In exemplary embodiments, the second open loopchannel 262 is located in the side assembly or assemblies 214 comprisinga cover or a poster holder, though it is contemplated that the secondopen loop channel 262 may be located in any side assembly 214, includingthose comprising digital displays. The second open loop channel 262 maybe located behind an open loop channel cover 264. An open loop channelplate 266 may be located behind said open loop channel cover 264. Inexemplary embodiments, the open loop channel plate 266 is spaced apartfrom, and located substantially parallel to, the open loop channel cover264. The open loop channel cover 264 may have substantially the samesurface area as the open loop channel plate 266, though such is notrequired. In exemplary embodiments, the open loop channel cover 264 maybe the outermost surface of the respective side of the assembly 210and/or of the respective side assembly 214 such as is illustrated inFIG. 19B. However, in other exemplary embodiments, an outer cover 268may be located above the open loop channel cover 264, such as isillustrated in FIG. 19A. In such embodiments, the outer cover 268 may bepositioned substantially parallel with, spaced apart from, and cover theentirety of the open loop channel cover 264, though such is notrequired.

Regardless, the second open loop channel 262 may be defined by the spacebetween the open loop channel cover 264 and the open loop channel plate266. The second open loop channel 262 may further comprise one or moreside panels 270 configured to extend between the open loop channel cover264 and the open loop channel plate 266 to further define the secondopen loop channel 262.

Any number of electronic components or equipment 244 or 230 may belocated in or near the second open loop channel 262, such as but notlimited to, being mounted to the open loop channel cover 264 or the openloop channel plate 266. Such electronic components or equipment 244 or230 may include a power supply or module, though any electroniccomponent or equipment is contemplated. The second open loop channel 262may be configured to transfer heat from the side assemblies 214, theelectronic components or equipment 244 or 230, other components of theassembly 210 to the ambient air passing through the second open loopchannel 262. The second open loop channel 262 may comprise surfacefeatures, materials, or components configured to facilitate the transferof heat, though such is not required. These may include, withoutlimitation, fins, thermally conductive materials, heat exchangers, orthe like. In exemplary embodiments, the open loop channel 262 maycomprise a corrugated layer 246. It is contemplated that any number offans 234 may be placed at any location near or along the second openloop channel 262 to force or encourage the flow of ambient air throughthe second open loop channel 262.

In exemplary embodiments, the ambient air 238 may enter the assembly 210at or near the top of the assembly 210 or the respective side assembly214. Similarly, in exemplary embodiments, the ambient air 238 may beexhausted at or near the bottom of the assembly 210 or the respectiveside assembly 214 such that the ambient air 238 flows verticallydownwards through the second open loop channel 262. In other exemplaryembodiments, the ambient air 238 may enter the assembly 210 or therespective side assembly 214 at or near the bottom of the assembly 210or the respective side assembly 214 and ambient air 238 may exhaust theassembly 210 at or near the top of the assembly 210 or the respectiveside assembly 214 such that ambient air flows vertically upwards throughthe second open loop channel 262. The second open loop channel 262 mayshare the intake 241 and the exhaust 209 such that ambient air entersvia the common intake 241 and is separated into flow paths which travelinto the two side assemblies 214. In other exemplary embodiments, thesecond open loop channel 262 may have a separate intake and exhaust.

The oppositely facing side assembly 214 may comprise an electronicdisplay 211 located in front of a backlight 221. Circulating gas 236 maypass through the first channel 225 defined by the space between theelectronic display 211 and a cover panel 217. The circulating gas 236may pass into a cavity 218 located between the side assemblies 214. Thecavity 218 may contain one or more fans 234 for moving the circulatinggas through the closed loop pathway. The cavity 218 may also compriseelectronic components 230 or 244 and an electronics plate 242 formounting the same. The cavity 218 may comprise one or more heat transferdevices 282, though such is not required. In such embodiments, ambientair 238 may also be passed through the heat transfer device 282, thoughsuch is not required.

The side assembly 214 embodiment illustrated and described in FIG. 19Athrough FIG. 20 may be the same as, or contain the features illustratedor described with respect to, other side assemblies 14 and 114embodiments illustrated or described herein, though such is notrequired. Any of the illustrated or described embodiments, or featuresthereof, may be utilized with any of the other embodiments illustratedor described herein.

In exemplary embodiments, the assembly 210 may be mounted in an elevatedposition at a downward angle. In exemplary embodiments, the assembly 210may be mounted to a sign, pole, street lamp, street fixture, sidewalkfixture, building, structure, ground, or the like, though mounting toany surface is contemplated. The assembly 210 may be positioned at adownward angle, such that the side assembly 214 facing the ground may beviewed by those traveling underneath. The downward angle may besubstantially 50 degrees, though any angle is contemplated.

In such embodiments, the second open loop channel 262 may be placed onthe side assembly 214 which would normally receive the greatest solarload. For example, without limitation, the second open loop channel 262may be placed on the side assembly 214 which would normally face upwardswhen mounted, though it is contemplated that the second open loopchannel 262 may be located in either or both of the side assemblies 214.Such an embodiment may be used in conjunction with, but is not limitedto, the exemplary assemblies 210 mounted in an elevated position at adownward angle, because the solar loading may primarily be experiencedon the upward facing side assembly 214. In this way, the second openloop channel 262 may be configured to remove some or all of the solarloading experienced on the upward facing side assembly 214. In suchembodiments, the upward facing side assembly 214 may comprise the secondopen loop channel 262 and a cover and the downward facing side assembly214 may comprise an electronic display or static backlit poster, thoughany combination of side assemblies 214 is contemplated.

Any embodiment of the present invention may include any of the optionalor preferred features of the other embodiments of the present invention.The exemplary embodiments herein disclosed are not intended to beexhaustive or to unnecessarily limit the scope of the invention. Theexemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain theprinciples of the present invention so that others skilled in the artmay practice the invention. Having shown and described exemplaryembodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art willrealize that many variations and modifications may be made to thedescribed invention. Many of those variations and modifications willprovide the same result and fall within the spirit of the claimedinvention. It is the intention, therefore, to limit the invention onlyas indicated by the scope of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for interchangeable displays, saidsystem comprising: a number of digital side assemblies, each comprisingan electronic display; a number of static side assemblies, eachcomprising a poster cavity configured to accept signage; a number ofcover side assemblies; a first side assembly selected from the groupconsisting of: one of the digital side assemblies, one of the staticside assemblies, and one of the cover side assemblies; a second sideassembly selected from the group consisting of: one of the digital sideassemblies, one of the static side assemblies, and one of the cover sideassemblies; and a frame configured to interchangeably accept the firstand second side assembly.
 2. The system of claim 1 wherein: the firstside assembly is of the same or a different type from the second sideassembly.
 3. The system of claim 1 wherein: said frame is configured toaccept said first and second side assemblies in a back to backarrangement.
 4. The system of claim 1 further comprising: a closed looppathway for circulating gas; and an open loop pathway for ambient air.5. The system of claim 4 further comprising: a channel located within atleast one of said first side assembly and said second side assembly,wherein said channel is configured to accept ambient air and forms atleast a portion of said open loop pathway; a cavity located between saidframe and said first and second side assemblies, wherein said cavity isconfigured to accept circulating gas and forms at least a portion ofsaid closed loop pathway; and a second channel located within at leastone of said first side assembly and said second side assembly, whereinsaid second channel is configured to accept circulating gas and forms atleast a portion of said closed loop pathway.
 6. The system of claim 1further comprising: an electronics plate extending from said frame,spaced apart from the first and second side assemblies, and positionedwithin the cavity, wherein said electronics plate is configured toreceive a plurality of electronic components.
 7. The system of claim 1wherein: said first and second side assembly are mounted to said framein a moveable fashion.
 8. The system of claim 1 wherein: the frame isconfigured to be installed on a sidewalk.
 9. A method interchanging adisplay system comprising the steps of: providing a number of digitalside assemblies, a number of static side assemblies, and a number ofcover side assemblies, wherein each of said digital side assembliescomprise at least one electronic display, and wherein each of saidstatic side assemblies comprise at least one poster cavity configured toaccept signage; selecting a first side assembly from the groupconsisting of: one of the digital side assemblies, one of the staticside assemblies, and one of the cover side assemblies; selecting asecond side assembly from the group consisting of: one of the digitalside assemblies, one of the static side assemblies, and one of the coverside assemblies; providing a frame configured to interchangeably acceptthe selected first side assembly and the selected second side assembly;mounting said selected first side assembly to a first portion of saidframe; and mounting said selected second side assembly to a secondportion of said frame.
 10. The method of claim 9 wherein: said firstside assembly is mounted to said first portion of said frame in amoveable fashion; and said second side assembly is mounted to saidsecond portion of said frame in a moveable fashion.
 11. The method ofclaim 9 further comprising the steps of: installing the frame at alocation, wherein remaining ones of said digital side assemblies, saidstatic side assemblies, and said cover side assemblies are stored at aremote location.
 12. The method of claim 11 wherein: said locationcomprises a city sidewalk; and said remote location comprises a storagefacility.
 13. The method of claim 11 further comprising the steps of:determining that one of the first and second side assemblies is in needof servicing; providing a replacement side assembly of the same type asthe side assembly in need of servicing; transporting the replacementside assembly from the remote location to the location; removing theside assembly in need of servicing from the frame; and mounting thereplacement side assembly to the frame.
 14. The method of claim 13further comprising the steps of: transporting the removed side assemblyto the remote location for servicing.
 15. The method of claim 11 furthercomprising the steps of: receiving a request to replace one of the firstand second side assemblies with a side assembly of a desired type,wherein the desired type is different from the type of display assemblymounted to the frame; providing a replacement side assembly of thedesired type; transporting the replacement side assembly from the remotelocation to the location; removing the no longer desired side assemblyfrom the frame; and mounting the replacement side assembly to the frame.16. The method of claim 11 further comprising the steps of: providing anelectronics plate extending from said frame, substantially parallel withand spaced apart from the first and second side assemblies; mountingelectronic components to said electronics plate; moving one of saidfirst and second side assemblies to an opened position away from saidframe; replacing one or more of the electronic components; and movingsaid one of said first and second side assemblies to a closed positionproximate to said frame.
 17. A method for providing an interchangeabledisplay comprising the steps of: providing a frame configured tointerchangeably accept a first and second side assembly in a moveablemanner, wherein said first and second side assembly are mounted toopposing sides of said frame; storing a number of digital sideassemblies, a number of static side assemblies, and a number of coverside assemblies at one or more remote locations; initially selecting afirst side assembly from the group consisting of: one of the digitalside assemblies, one of the static side assemblies, and one of the coverside assemblies; initially selecting a second side assembly from thegroup consisting of: one of the digital side assemblies, one of thestatic side assemblies, and one of the cover side assemblies; installingthe frame at a customer site; transporting the initially selected firstside assembly and the initially selected second side assembly to thecustomer site; mounting said first side assembly to a first side of saidframe; mounting said second side assembly to an opposing side of saidframe; receiving a request to replace a particular one of the first andsecond side assemblies with a side assembly of a desired type;providing, from the one or more storage locations, a replacement sideassembly of the desired type from remaining ones of the digital sideassemblies, the static side assemblies, and the cover side assemblies;transporting the replacement side assembly to the customer site;removing the particular one of the first and second side assemblies fromthe frame; and mounting the replacement side assembly to the frame. 18.The method of claim 17 further comprising the steps of: returning theparticular one of the first and second side assemblies to one of the oneor more remote locations.
 19. The method of claim 17 wherein: thedesired type is the same type as the particular one of the first andsecond side assemblies.
 20. The method of claim 17 wherein: the desiredtype is a different type from the particular one of the first and secondside assemblies.